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Articles on Mass hysteria

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In late 2016, people working and living in the embassy district of Havana, including at the U.S. Embassy seen here, began hearing strange sounds before getting sick. AP Photo/Desmond Boylan

Havana syndrome fits the pattern of psychosomatic illness – but that doesn’t mean symptoms aren’t real

Havana syndrome has spread to government officials around the world and stumped doctors for years. Despite news of mysterious attacks, evidence suggests mass psychogenic illness may be the true cause.
A neuro-otologist at the University of Miami reported “central vestibular” (inner ear) findings in 36 per cent of American diplomats and their families affected by Havana syndrome. (Shutterstock)

‘Havana syndrome’ symptoms of diplomats in Cuba are not mass hysteria

Multiple sclerosis and endometriosis in women both used to be diagnosed as hysteria. The same could be happening with ‘Havana syndrome.’
Sometimes you don’t know whether to laugh or cry. 'Clowns' via www.shutterstock.com

The psychology behind why clowns creep us out

Random clown sightings don’t make everyone laugh. A psychologist who has studied creepiness explains why clowns are especially adept at making us squirm.

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